SkyCaddie Linx GT Watch Review

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The SkyCaddie Linx GT watch is packed with all sorts of different functionality and complexity.

Introduction

If you’re anything like me, deciding which piece of golf technology to buy is difficult. I’m not sure there’s an area of the industry more difficult than the GPS/watch market. SkyCaddie tried to simplify this decision with the Linx GT watch. The Linx GT watch is packed with GPS, Game Tracking, and fitness tracking. That’s a lot packed into one device, and I was curious to see how each piece performed.

Setup

Pairing the SkyCaddie Linx GT with your phone, setting up the account, and basic navigation of the watch is easy. The trouble started with setting up the SmartTags. I ended up reaching out to the SkyGolf chat support who struggled to understand my issue and resolve it. I finally resolved the issue by myself by figuring out that there are two SkyCaddie applications in the App Store. Make sure you download “SkyCaddie Mobile by SkyGolf.”

When I started tagging the SmartTags in the correct app, I thought I was off and running. What should have been a five minute process took about fifteen minutes. The watch would freeze, I’d have to exit the Clubs section, and then force the watch the re-engage. It may not make sense as you read this, but you will see what I mean when you setup your own tags. I also had re-tag certain clubs because they would randomly “drop.”

I understand that with equipment such as the Linx GT there will always be a certain amount of setup. I’m perfectly fine with that. My problem with the Linx GT is that the setup is not intuitive and took more time than it should have.

Ease of Use

Once you familiarize yourself with the various features of the Linx GT, it’s not that hard to use. Where this SkyCaddie device gets difficult is juggling the different functionalities between the watch and your phone during your round of golf. The GPS on the watch is very easy to use once the signal finally picks up for the course.

I found the Game Tracking element useful and interesting, but spent so much time fixing shots (even with the automated feature turned off) that I would not classify it as easy to use. If you aren’t careful, this could easily impact pace of play. Relying on the “Intelligent Automation” will result in inaccurate results at the end of your round. Making all of the edits post-round is impractical and heavily dependent on your memory. When the Game Tracking element works well, it is very cool to see the live updates on your phone.

Accuracy & Performance

The built-in odometer and the GPS functionality are very accurate and work well on the Linx GT. As mentioned, SkyCaddie needs to do a little bit of work on their Game Tracking functionality. For basic scorekeeping, distances, and minor stat collection, the Linx GT is great.

The battery life is acceptably average. If you’re doing shot tracking and have Bluetooth enabled, it’s going to hammer the battery. One round of golf used about 60% of the battery. Had I booked 36 holes for the day, the Linx GT would not have made it.

Value

You can currently buy the SkyCaddie Linx GT watch right around $300 (support PluggedInGolf, buy it HERE). Considering all the features built into this watch, that price seems like a good value to me. As you gain experience with the Linx GT, managing the complexity will become easier, making the watch more valuable.

While the Linx GT can be used for free, you will need to buy a membership to unlock all the features. You can get the details HERE.

Conclusion

For a single device to do everything SkyCaddie Linx GT claims is a tall order. I think the Linx GT is at the top of the pile with GPS, but other features perform better in standalone devices. Simply put, the SkyCaddie Linx GT is a great GPS watch but an average total package. I’d prefer spending a few less dollars to go with the standard SkyCaddie Linx.

Bill is a true golf gear nerd by definition who loves making custom club creations in his garage with tools like sledge hammers, blow torches, and his bare hands. When Bill isn't working on PluggedInGolf.com, or in the garage, he is a technology manager living in the Chicago suburbs with his wife and kids.
Bill plays Scott Readman Concepts putters and accessories.

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